And now Terry is set to join the Belgian in tying himself to the club by signing a new one-year deal.

The former England captain has forged a formidable partnership with Gary Cahill at the heart of Jose Mourinho's defence, and despite the 34-year-old nearing the end of his career, his manager is keen to ensure he stays at the club.

"Every individual is an individual," Mourinho said. ‘There are old players at the age of 22. I know some — 22 and old.

DOUBLE BOOST: Hazard and Terry are on the verge of contract extensions [AFP]

"I know young guys at 36 or 37. John is one of them. I had Javier Zanetti at Inter who was already 37. When the other guys came after a day off from training, he’d run from his home to burn the energy from his day off.

"I don’t know (how long Terry can play). You never know when. The important thing is that, tomorrow, it’s the next match and he’s in great condition to play."